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Solar Exploration

Mercury

Mercury

Mercury is the smallest planet in our solar system and nearest to the Sun, Mercury is only slightly larger than Earth's Moon. It is the closest planet to the Sun. Mercury is a rocky planet, also known as a terrestrial planet. Mercury has a solid, cratered surface, much like the Earth's moon.

Avg. Distance

36 million miles

Year Length

88 d

Moons

0

Composition

Rocky (Silicate/Metal)

Surface Gravity

3.7 m/s²

Mean Temperature

430°C / -180°C

Atmosphere

Thin (Oxygen, Sodium)

Historical Missions

Exploration Milestones

Mariner 10

1973

First mission to use gravity assist and visit Mercury.

Mission Success

MESSENGER

2004

First spacecraft to orbit Mercury, mapping its entire surface.

Mission Success

NASA Gallery

Real Mission Photos

Mercury, Mercury!

Mercury, Mercury!

Mercury in Bronze

Mercury in Bronze

Hello, Mercury!

Hello, Mercury!

Mercury in Color!

Mercury in Color!

Fireworks on Mercury!

Fireworks on Mercury!

Crescent Mercury

Crescent Mercury

Breaking Mercury

Breaking Mercury

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